Phoenix, Arizona, November 26, 2025
The Oklahoma State Cowboys will face the Grand Canyon Lopes in the inaugural Jerry Colangelo Classic at PHX Arena in Phoenix. Both teams aim for a strong performance as they prepare for their respective conference challenges. Key players like senior guard Kanye Clary and fifth-year forward Christian Coleman have joined the Cowboys, promising a competitive matchup. The event not only showcases collegiate talent but also brings economic benefits to the local community, highlighting the intersection of sports and local pride.
Phoenix, Arizona – The Oklahoma State Cowboys are set to face off against the Grand Canyon Lopes in the highly anticipated Jerry Colangelo Classic on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. CST at the PHX Arena, home to the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. This matchup will be the inaugural meeting between the two teams and is already generating excitement among basketball fans.
Under the guidance of head coach Steve Lutz, the Cowboys have enhanced their roster with key transfers. Senior guard Kanye Clary, arriving from Mississippi State, and fifth-year forward Christian Coleman from UAB are expected to play pivotal roles during this season, especially in their pursuit of a conference title. The team’s strategic adjustments underline their determination to compete at a higher level nationally.
Meanwhile, the Lopes, led by head coach Bryce Drew, have established themselves as a formidable force in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), representing the conference in four of the last five NCAA tournaments. Their ambition is clear: to uphold their reputation in collegiate basketball while seizing the opportunity to compete in a top-tier venue. Playing in the PHX Arena provides an added element of prestige and experience as they seek to push for another NCAA berth this season.
Economic Implications for Phoenix’s Sports Scene
The Jerry Colangelo Classic not only showcases athletic prowess but also has far-reaching economic implications for Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Events like these draw significant crowds and tourism, benefiting local businesses from hotels to restaurants. This classic pays homage to Jerry Colangelo, an influential figure in Phoenix’s sports history, and represents a celebration of local pride and competitive spirit.
As the economy rebounds and community interest in sports grows, the impact of such high-profile games is dual-faceted: they foster community engagement while also stimulating economic activity. These matchups promote a culture of collaboration between university athletics and local businesses, generating a sense of community solidarity.
Support from University Programs and Private Investments
Success in college athletics often hinges on the integration of institutional support and private investment. Both Oklahoma State University and Grand Canyon University feature programs that prioritize athletic development, showcasing their commitment to cultivating talent and providing necessary resources.
The investment in player development through scholarships, training facilities, and coaching staff is pivotal. The Cowboys and Lopes exemplify how proactive measures within university programs can yield competitive teams that resonate with the ideals of entrepreneurship and initiative. Such strategies not only aim to improve athletic performance but also instill discipline and resilience in student-athletes.
Community Engagement and the Value of Competition
The Jerry Colangelo Classic amplifies the role of community engagement in fostering a vibrant sports culture. Collaboration between universities, local governments, and community organizations fortifies the foundation for competitive sports. The shared investment in youth development and collegiate athletics heightens local pride, cultivates future talent, and fortifies community ties.
Sports inherently emphasize competition, serving as a platform for individual growth and teamwork. The Cowboys and Lopes illustrate how rivalry plays an essential role in making collegiate sports enticing. Not only does competition enhance performance on the court, it also enriches student-athletes’ experiences, preparing them for future challenges.
Conclusion
As the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Grand Canyon Lopes prepare to meet in the Jerry Colangelo Classic, the significance of this game extends beyond the court. It provides an opportunity for both teams to bolster their credentials against non-conference foes, essential for their aspirations in the NCAA tournament. For the city of Phoenix, this event symbolizes the strength of community ties, the importance of investment in sports, and the enduring enjoyment of competition among students and fans alike.
As the date approaches, fans are encouraged to participate, purchase tickets through the Hall of Fame Series, and become part of this remarkable event that showcases the best of collegiate athletics in Phoenix.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Jerry Colangelo Classic |
| Date and Time | Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. CST |
| Location | PHX Arena, Phoenix, Arizona |
| Teams | Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. Grand Canyon Lopes |
| Tickets | Available through the Hall of Fame Series website; presale information at HOFSeries.com |
| Broadcast | CBSSN |
- What is the Jerry Colangelo Classic?
- The Jerry Colangelo Classic is an annual basketball event held in Phoenix, Arizona, featuring high-profile non-conference matchups between top collegiate teams. It honors the legacy of Jerry Colangelo, a prominent figure in Phoenix’s sports history.
- Where is the game between Oklahoma State and Grand Canyon being played?
- The game is scheduled to take place at the PHX Arena in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
- How can fans purchase tickets for the event?
- Tickets are available through the Hall of Fame Series website. Fans can also sign up for presale information at HOFSeries.com.
- Who are some key players to watch in this matchup?
- For Oklahoma State, senior guard Kanye Clary from Mississippi State and fifth-year forward Christian Coleman from UAB are notable additions. For Grand Canyon, the team has a strong presence in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), having represented the conference in four of the last five NCAA tournaments.
- What is the significance of this game for both teams?
- This matchup provides both teams with an opportunity to compete against strong non-conference opponents, which is crucial for their preparation for conference play and potential NCAA tournament berths.
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
